Our expert panel discuss the key roles of a SENCO and the things that a SENCO can and should do in order to be successful and effective. We look at what elements need to be in place in school for SENCOs to thrive and consider how we can overcome common challenges – including insufficient time, workload and the paperwork!
Our experts offer tips for engaging with teaching staff – including striking the right balance between supporting and empowering them – as well as handling those difficult colleagues who expect too much from their SENCOs.
We also ask our experts why they decided to become a SENCO, how the role has changed over the years, and what advice they have for someone who is thinking of becoming a SENCO. We also talk family engagement and communication.
The episode is hosted by Bukky Yusuf, a senior leader, science teacher and an educational coach who is also a member of the SecEd editorial board. Our guests are:
- Marguerite Haye is an independent special education teacher and consultant.
- Emmanuel Awoyelu is an educator, SENCO and assistant headteacher.
- Hannah Moloney is a SENCO, SEND researcher and co-author of the report National SENCO Workforce Survey, which was published with Nasen in July 2021.
You can listen to this episode of the SecEd Podcast above. To hear other SecEd podcasts, or to subscribe for free to new editions, search for 'The SecEd Podcast' in your podcast streaming application of choice. Or visit www.sec-ed.co.uk/podcasts
For details about The SecEd Podcast, or to suggest future topics, email editor Pete Henshaw at editor@sec-ed.co.uk